Stir Up Some Fun This Season – Sweet & Spicy Martini or Maple Manhattan

Just in time for the holidays! I have two great drink recipes to share with those of you whose idea of cooking is making fun cocktails. I tried these delicious drinks while attending the Design Beats: Makers event hosted by WIRED and Marriott Hotels & Resorts at the Marriott San Francisco Union Square. The event was part of the ongoing #Culturazzi series and I was one of the lucky attendees chosen to enjoy wine and cocktails with the Marriott team.

Shake and Serve Simplicity

These delicious recipes are a perfect addition to your holiday party cocktail menu or as a personal treat after a long day of holiday shopping.

Maple Crown Royal (2 oz.)
M&R Red Vermouth (.5 oz.)
Blood Orange Bitters (.5 oz.)
Shake with ice and serve in a martini glass
Garnish with a cinnamon stick as a finishing touchThe maple infused Crown Royal adds just enough sweetness to make it the perfect cocktail to enjoy with a rich chocolate dessert or just about any post dinner indulgence.

Divine Wines, Festive Times

Need some great wine choices for your upcoming holiday parties and festivities? If you love wine like I do, you probably also enjoy discovering new vintages and adding them to your list of favorites. I had an opportunity to try a host of delightful wines.Here’s a list of some of the vintages I enjoyed:

My favorite was the chardonnay, Morgan – simply delicious with subtle hints of tropical fruit. And yes, I agree with Oliver Wendell Holmes “Wine is a food “ ツ just as some of you may think making cocktails is cooking.Please try these two recipes and let me know what you think.